Accessibility at the Royal Adelaide Show: The Royal Adelaide Show is one of South Australia’s most beloved annual events, bringing together food, rides, entertainment, animals, and family fun. It has been running for the last 185 years, hosted by The Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Society (RA&HS).
“The Show brings together country and city communities to celebrate excellence and innovation and to educate and connect in a vibrant carnival atmosphere.”
Each year, the Royal Adelaide Show welcomes around one-third of South Australia’s population over its nine-day celebration, with visitors spending an average of seven hours exploring the attractions. This makes it the most well-attended Royal Show per capita in the Country. In 2025, the Show will proudly celebrate 100 years at the Adelaide Showgrounds in Wayville.
To ensure that everyone can enjoy the experience, the Show offers a wide range of accessibility options designed to make the event welcoming and inclusive for people of all abilities.
At KompleteCare, we know how important it is to feel supported when attending community events like the Royal Adelaide Show.
Whether it’s arranging safe transport to and from the Show, or providing a Home Support Worker to accompany you for the day, we are here to make sure everyone can take part in the experiences that matter the most.
At KompleteCare, we know that accessibility means more than just getting through the gates; it’s about enjoying every moment. To help everyone have an amazing experience, here are some accessibility features at the Royal Adelaide Show which may assist those planning a day out!
Accessibility at the Royal Adelaide Show: Parking and Transport
For visitors with mobility needs, designated accessible parking is available at both the Rose Terrace and Leader Street entrances. These locations have been chosen to provide the most convenient access points to the Showgrounds, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable arrival. The spaces are located close to the main gates, helping to reduce travel distances for patrons using wheelchairs, mobility aids, or with limited mobility. To make the day even easier, accessible drop-off zones are also available, allowing families, carers, or Support Workers to assist with safe and convenient entry.
Accessibility at the Royal Adelaide Show: Accessible Facilities
The showgrounds have accessible bathrooms located in the Goyder and Jubilee Pavilion foyers (north and south entrances), the Atrium, the Ridely Centre, inside the Royal Banquet Room, inside the Wayville Sports Centre and adjacent to the Stirling Angas Hall (located in the north east corner).
There is also the Carer’s Lounge, located inside the Vilis Dog Pavilion. It includes a designated sensory space, with interactive screens, bubbles, fibre optics and a magic carpet, for carers and those with disabilities. There is an accessible bathroom located here with a height-adjustable change table and hoist, along with a separate accessible toilet.
Accessibility at the Royal Adelaide Show: Wheelchair Access
The Royal Adelaide Show is committed to ensuring all visitors can enjoy the day. Dedicated wheelchair viewing areas and platforms are located in both the public and members’ grandstands in the main arena so that everyone can share the excitement of the Show’s biggest attractions. There is also ample space for wheelchair users to enjoy performances at the Goyder Stage and Boulevard Stage.
The Showgrounds are designed with accessibility in mind, with ramps and lifts providing step-free access across all areas. For added convenience, wheelchair and mobility scooter hire is available, but get in early as bookings are recommended to ensure availability.
A second Ferris Wheel has arrived at the Royal Adelaide Show this year, standing at 35 meters tall. It has fully enclosed gondolas, which provide access for wheelchairs and those with additional needs to enjoy the thrill of riding the Ferris Wheel.
Accessibility at the Royal Adelaide Show: Companion Card Friendly
The Royal Adelaide Show proudly accepts Companion Cards, meaning a Home Support Worker can attend free of charge when accompanying a person with a disability. This ensures visitors have the assistance they need while enjoying everything the Show has to offer. At KompleteCare, we have the right Home Support Worker for you, so that you can enjoy the Show.
Accessibility at the Royal Adelaide Show: Sensory Considerations
For guests who may need a break from the hustle and bustle, quiet areas are available as calm spaces to relax and recharge. Additionally, some attractions and activities host sensory-friendly sessions, with reduced lighting and sound, designed to create a more comfortable experience for those with sensory sensitivities.
The Carnival Quiet Hour, set for Sunday, August 31, Tuesday, September 2, Wednesday, September 3 and Thursday, September 4 from 9:30 am – 10:30 am, will see carnival operators turning off their music, strobes and lights so the space in this period can be more accessible for people with additional needs.
Communication boards, created in consultation with Autism SA therapists, will provide support to people who communicate differently or are non-verbal. They will be located at Show Kiosks, the Show Office and Volunteer HQ.
Friendly staff and volunteers are always on hand to help. Whether it’s directions, accessibility information, or a little extra support, you can approach a Show staff member at any time, or visit the Guest Services Centre for information, support and assistance.
The Royal Adelaide Show continues to make accessibility a priority, ensuring that everyone in the community can enjoy the rides, food, animals and excitement that make the Show a highlight of the year. And at KompleteCare, we share that same vision: making every experience accessible and enjoyable. From in-home care to community outings like the Show, we’re here to support you every step of the way, because at KompleteCare, we put our heart into every home. We’ll see you at the 2025 Royal Adelaide Show.